There’s a new little gem in town by the name of Wool on Main, it’s sorta kinda on Main St, but not really. It’s actually nicely hidden away on Library Lane so if you can’t find it as you stroll along Main, just turn the corner around the end of the building by King of Wings and you’ll find it at 9 Library Lane.

Sandra Albanese is the founder and lifetime knitter behind this quaint shop and has been knitting from the age of 6.  Learning from her grandmother and seeing all the beautiful creations she made inspired Sandra to continue her own knitting journey.  She recently gave up her past business of 20 years and dove headfirst into opening this shop.  Lots of stress over many issues from suppliers to finding a good spot to set up shop etc, but she did it and is excited for what’s in store.

I’ve been in the store twice now, and both times other customers have come and expressed their appreciation for now having a needle workshop in town, so they don’t have to drive elsewhere to get their supplies.  And supplies she has!  She can hook you up with tools for knitting, embroidery, crocheting, cross stitch, needle point, and macramé.  Several different brands of yarn, wool, embroidery threads etc with options like hand dyed, vegan sourced, Canadian made plus from around the world as Sandra has a particular liking for wools from the UK.  The selection of types and colours left me wide eyed and wishing I stuck with it when my mom taught me to knit a few (actually many) years ago.  Then there are the tools and accessories and all the supplies you need…needles, (swivel needles too!) labels, hoops, bags, buttons, even a winding station so you can wind your purchased skein into a ball… who knew!    The photo here shows a beverage cozie, a free pattern provided when you buy a skein, how fun and practical is this?  (again, I wish I could knit!) No more freezing hands when you’re holding that hot or cold beverage while enjoying your favourite outdoor activity.

There are lots of options to get your knitting / needle work groove on that includes all levels from beginner to very experienced.…kid’s classes, adult classes, knit alongs, knitting/crochet circles, and just social knitting time, whatever works for you.  More classes coming as Sandra is wanting to find teachers in various disciplines to lead them.  She has a comfy area set up so if you’re looking for projects to work on, you can sit and peruse the various books with patterns and ideas.  Upcoming in November is a kids class where over 8 weeks they will be making their own Raggedy Ann doll, another class will see the kids making a mini stuffed kitten.  She is overflowing with ideas on things to do, so there will always be new up and coming fun things to keep you busy. Keep an eye on her website woolonmain.ca and when it goes live you can keep up to date. Looking for something in particular?

Talk to Sandra, she will do her best to source what you need.  And speaking of Christmas, she’s got various kits available and stocking stuffers, hostess gifts, even an Advent calendar filled with yarn surprises!  Just ask, she’ll create something awesome for you.  You can also create a wish list in store or online for those in your life looking to buy gifts for you.

Knitting circles on Thursday evenings from 5:30 to 7:30 PM and Tuesday afternoons from 1 to 3 PM. Saturday mornings from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM or children’s art classes age 6 and up please email to book sandra@woolonmain.ca.